equivocate
verb (used without object)
to use ambiguous or unclear expressions, usually to avoid commitment or in order to mislead; prevaricate or hedge.
had equivocated
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past perfectof equivocate.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Newsom and his wife, Jennifer Siebel Newsom, had equivocated about whether to move, citing concerns about uprooting their young children.
From Washington Times ● Jan. 4, 2019
Other top administration officials, including Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley, had condemned Russia’s actions, but Trump had equivocated in recent days.
From Washington Post ● Nov. 29, 2018
He said he had equivocated because “it was difficult for me” after talking to families of dead soldiers who believed that their loved ones “did not die in vain.”
From Slate ● Aug. 7, 2015
She had equivocated with one whose upright, candid nature ought to have protected him: but an enemy had accused Josephine; and it came so natural to shield her.
From White Lies by Charles Reade
He had equivocated so adroitly as to bar cross-examination, he hoped, but Jessie's curiosity was not easily parried.
From Jessamine A Novel by Marion Harland
